Addressing massive gatherings at Doloo Tea Estate, Sonowal underscored the BJP’s vision of “Samanyay” — integration of Barak, Brahmaputra, Hills, and Plains — as the foundation of Assam’s holistic development.
“Barak Valley is not just a geographic region; it is the culturally and spiritually rich heartbeat of Assam. The journey of integration that began in 2016 has brought historic progress, harmony, and opportunity to this region,” Sarbananda Sonowal said.
Paying tribute to veteran BJP leader Kabindra Purkayasta, Sonowal said the BJP-led NDA government has accorded Barak Valley the respect and recognition it long deserved, in contrast to decades of neglect under Congress rule.
Sarbananda Sonowal said that before 2016, connectivity challenges had isolated the region, making even travel to Guwahati difficult. “Today, with massive investments in roads, railways, waterways, and air connectivity, Barak Valley is emerging as a key economic and strategic hub,” Sonowal added.
Highlighting major infrastructure milestones, Sonowal pointed to the near completion of the East-West Corridor envisioned by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and the recent foundation stone laid for the Rs 23,000 crore Shillong–Silchar high-speed corridor by Prime Minister Modi. Sonowal also noted the expansion of railway connectivity with over 20 regular trains, including Vistadome and Rajdhani services.
The Union Minister emphasised the strategic importance of inland waterways, stating that the revival of the Barak River, with upgraded terminals at Badarpur and Karimganj, is opening new trade routes to Bangladesh and Southeast Asia. Sonowal further highlighted that a Greenfield airport near Doloo Tea Garden is under development, which will significantly boost regional connectivity and economic opportunities. Sonowal added that improved logistics and multimodal connectivity are positioning Barak Valley as a critical hub for trade, tourism, and investment in Northeast India.
On social welfare and youth empowerment, Sonowal highlighted flagship initiatives such as the Swami Vivekananda Assam Youth Empowerment (SVAYEM) scheme and the Arunodoi scheme, which he said have strengthened livelihoods and empowered women across Assam. Sonowal invoked Swami Vivekananda as a guiding inspiration for youth development.
Elaborating on governance reforms, Sonowal said the operational mini secretariat in Barak Valley has ensured faster delivery of public services and reduced administrative gaps between the government and citizens.
He added that schemes under AMRUT and PHE have brought a “water security revolution,” covering thousands of households with improved access to drinking water.
In Doloo Tea Estate, Sonowal placed special emphasis on the welfare of tea garden communities, stating that the BJP government has ensured land rights, financial inclusion, and access to housing, electricity, water, and gas connections for lakhs of tea garden families.
“For decades, tea garden workers were neglected. Today, they are rightful stakeholders in Assam’s growth story, with dignity, identity, and opportunity,” Sonowal said.
Sarbananda Sonowal also highlighted cultural recognition initiatives, including the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas in honour of tribal icon Birsa Munda, and the promotion of tea tribe heritage such as the Jhumur dance on global platforms.
